Donald Bourdo

• Memorial Visitation
  • Wednesday, March 9th, from 4-7pm at Heritage Funeral Homes (9200 S. 27th St. Oak Crrek)

Don Bourdo passed away peacefully, surround by family. Loving husband of Dorothy (Hahlbeck), devoted father of Doug (Debi), Debra Bryant (Bill), Diane (Jan van der Zwaag) and Dawn (Billy Hughes). Cherished grandpa to Lilliana, Alexandra, Hunter, Mackenzie and Molly and great-grandpa of Reynae and Finley. Also survived by Ed and Edie Hahlbeck (in-laws) nieces, nephews, extended family, devoted employees Erich and Randy, many friends and puppy Nutmeg. Preceded in death by parents Vernon & Myrtle Bourdo, brother Vernon and sister Janice Spack (Robert).

Don wanted to make his mark in the world. As a young boy he raised his own livestock and learned how to help with farming. As he got older, an interest in cars and motorcycles blossomed, specifically the art of making them run faster. He put this knowledge to use with his first position as a mechanic and right-hand man at Esch Lawn & Garden. While in his 20’s the Navy came calling and Don enjoyed his position with the Construction Battalion (SeaBees), stationed in Subic Bay, Philippines. Once back in the States, he set his sites on establishing himself in business and opened his own tractor dealership, Oak Creek Equipment in 1961. In coming years, with the help of his wife Dorothy, he grew his business and his family. He relocated the business to a new building on South 13^th Street, near Ryan Road and added large construction equipment to his line of farm tractors and implements. He and Dorothy also relocated their family nearby, building a home on adjacent acreage – lots of room to roam (and lawn to mow, a classic Don past-time).

The years to follow were busy for Don and Dorothy – raising their family and growing their business. They fit in some travel when they could, trips with the kids and dealer sponsored retreats to Rome, London and other fun destinations. Eventually, the business was relocated further north to its current location on South 13^th St, between Rawson and College. Over time, they phased out the large equipment and focused on custom made hydraulic hoses at Tri State Equipment. One of the aspects Don liked most about his business was interacting with customers – ‘shooting the breeze’.

His greatest joy in adulthood was his family, sharing over six decades of partnership in life and business with his wife Dorothy. He relished following the career and life paths of his kids and more recently his beloved grandchildren as they set out on their own. He will be missed by all.

If desired, memorial donations to the Oak Creek Community Center would be greatly appreciated.

A Memorial Visitation at Heritage Funeral Home (9200 S 27^th St, Oak Creek) Wednesday, March 9^th from 4-7pm, with a brief memorial service and sharing of stories.